Sleep Apnoea
Sources consulted
This article is original patient-education content.
- WHO—Health topics A–Z(2024)
- NHS—Health A to Z(2024)
- CDC—Health topics(2024)
Based on international clinical guidelines
Overview
Sleep apnoea is a condition where your breathing stops and starts repeatedly while you sleep. These pauses can last from seconds to minutes and can happen many times an hour, disrupting your sleep quality and oxygen levels.
Key facts
- Sleep apnoea is common and treatable, often with simple lifestyle changes or a breathing device.
- It can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke if left untreated.
- Many people with sleep apnoea are unaware they have it because the breathing interruptions happen during sleep.
Yes, sleep apnoea is quite common, affecting about 1 in 5 adults to some degree. It is most common in middle-aged men, but it can affect people of any age or gender.
Sleep apnoea can affect both children and adults. In adults, it is more common in people who are overweight, have a large neck circumference, or have a family history of the condition. In children, it often occurs due to large tonsils or adenoids.
Symptoms
- If someone with sleep apnoea stops breathing and does not start again on their own, call your local emergency number immediately.
- If you or someone else has severe shortness of breath or chest pain during sleep, call for emergency help.
- ⚠If you have very severe daytime sleepiness that leads to nearly falling asleep while driving or operating machinery, seek urgent medical advice.
- ⚠If you have choking episodes that feel like they are not improving with position changes.
Common symptoms
- Loud snoring that is often interrupted by pauses and gasping or choking sounds.
- Waking up feeling tired even after a full night's sleep.
- Morning headaches.
- Daytime sleepiness, such as falling asleep while reading, watching TV, or even driving.
- Irritability or mood changes.
- Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat.
Symptoms in children
- Restless sleep or sleeping in unusual positions.
- Bedwetting, even in older children.
- Poor school performance or difficulty paying attention.
- Snoring, which may sound heavier than typical childhood snoring.
Symptoms in older adults
- More frequent nighttime awakenings and difficulty staying asleep.
- Confusion or memory problems during the day.
- Increased risk of falls due to daytime sleepiness.
- Similar symptoms as adults, but often attributed to aging.
Causes
Main causes
- Obstructive sleep apnoea: The most common type, caused by the muscles in the back of the throat relaxing too much, blocking the airway.
- Central sleep apnoea: A less common type where the brain does not send the right signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Risk factors
- Being overweight or obese, especially with a neck circumference over 17 inches for men and 16 inches for women.
- Smoking or alcohol use before bedtime.
- Having a family history of sleep apnoea.
- Having a narrow airway due to large tonsils, a deviated septum, or a small jaw.
- Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have severe daytime sleepiness that affects your safety or ability to work, talk to your doctor as soon as possible.
- If you or a bed partner notice that you stop breathing during sleep regularly and wake up gasping.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you or your partner notice loud snoring with pauses, and you often feel tired during the day.
- If you have high blood pressure or other heart problems that are not well controlled.
- If you have been told you have sleep apnoea before but your symptoms are getting worse.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and may refer you for a sleep study. A sleep study is the main test to diagnose sleep apnoea.
Tests that may be done
- Polysomnography: An overnight test done in a sleep lab where sensors monitor your breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and brain waves.
- Home sleep apnea test: A simplified version you can do at home that tracks your breathing and oxygen levels during sleep.
What to expect at your appointment
If you have a sleep study, you will sleep in a comfortable room while a technician monitors you. The sensors may feel a little unusual, but they are not painful. After the test, a specialist will review your data and discuss the results with you.
Treatment
Treatment for sleep apnoea aims to keep your airway open while you sleep and improve your quality of life. The right treatment depends on the type and severity of your condition.
Self-care at home
- Lose weight if you are overweight, as even a small amount of weight loss can improve symptoms.
- Avoid alcohol and other sedatives in the evening, as they can relax your throat muscles more.
- Sleep on your side instead of your back. Special pillows or wearable devices can help.
- Keep your nose clear by using a saline spray or treating allergies.
Medical treatments
The most common treatment is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, which delivers a gentle stream of air through a mask to keep your airway open. Another option is an oral appliance, custom-fitted by a dentist, that moves your jaw or tongue forward to prevent blockage. Your doctor may also recommend other device-based or positional therapies.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is considered when other treatments do not work and there is a clear structural problem, such as very large tonsils, a deviated septum, or a small jaw. Surgical options include tonsillectomy, removal of excess tissue from the throat, or jaw advancement surgery. Talk to your specialist about whether surgery might be right for you.
Living with this condition
Using a CPAP machine or oral appliance every night is key to managing sleep apnoea. It may take a little time to get used to, but most people feel much better once they use it consistently. Good sleep habits, like a consistent bedtime and a calm sleep environment, also help.
Lifestyle tips
- Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
- Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke.
- Limit alcohol, especially before bed.
- Establish a relaxing bedtime routine.
Diet and exercise
Eating a balanced diet and getting regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is one of the most effective ways to reduce sleep apnoea symptoms. Try to aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days, and avoid heavy meals right before bed.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Sleep apnoea can cause mood changes, irritability, and depression due to poor sleep quality. It's important to talk to your doctor if you feel low or anxious. Treatment often improves your mood along with your sleep. If you need immediate support for mental health, contact a crisis helpline or your local emergency number.
Prevention
Not all cases can be prevented, but you can lower your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol. If you have a family history or other risk factors, being aware of the symptoms and seeking early treatment can help prevent complications.
Complications
If left untreated
- High blood pressure and increased risk of heart disease.
- Higher chance of stroke.
- Type 2 diabetes.
- Daytime sleepiness leading to accidents or poor work performance.
- Worsening of existing conditions like asthma or heart failure.
Long-term outlook
With proper treatment, most people with sleep apnoea experience a significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life. Treatment can reduce the risk of complications and help you feel more rested and alert. There is a lot of hope – this condition is very manageable.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- NHS Sleep Apnoea Service ↗ · United Kingdom
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.